I've recently promised myself to start wearing heels more because I think it really balances out my frame, and, of course, I feel a little bit prettier. I've discovered that wedges are the most doable shoes for me, but I am a semi-vegan and won't wear leather, and finding wedges that look expensive and are well made that aren't leather has proven difficult. … Any suggestions? —Samantha K.
Most of the shoes you'll find at affordable retailers like Target and Payless are made from synthetic materials, good news for stylish vegans who don't wear leather! And you're right to seek out wedge styles - they'll give you a little lift without killing your feet. The increased surface area of a wedge heel (versus a stiletto's tiny point) means your weight is more evenly distributed - and that means less pain. Now that we've had our physics lesson of the day, here's a round-up of six great places to shop for affordable and fashionable vegan shoes.
1. Target is every fashionista's favorite for cheap-chic shoes. Just be sure to check the inside of the shoe to see what material it's made of, as Target does occasionally carry genuine leather styles. This wedge by Merona is a great option for a casual work environment and will look great with skirts or jeans. The peep-toe and cut-outs should help your foot breathe, too.
Most of the shoes you'll find at affordable retailers like Target and Payless are made from synthetic materials, good news for stylish vegans who don't wear leather! And you're right to seek out wedge styles - they'll give you a little lift without killing your feet. The increased surface area of a wedge heel (versus a stiletto's tiny point) means your weight is more evenly distributed - and that means less pain. Now that we've had our physics lesson of the day, here's a round-up of six great places to shop for affordable and fashionable vegan shoes.
1. Target is every fashionista's favorite for cheap-chic shoes. Just be sure to check the inside of the shoe to see what material it's made of, as Target does occasionally carry genuine leather styles. This wedge by Merona is a great option for a casual work environment and will look great with skirts or jeans. The peep-toe and cut-outs should help your foot breathe, too.
2. Payless is another great place for budget veganistas to score the latest shoe trends at super low prices. I'm in love with these espadrille wedges with faux-leather trim, they remind me of Tory Burch. I can totally picture cool girls rocking these with opaque tights in the fall, too.
3. Kohl's is another hotspot for vegan-friendly footwear. In fact, a friend of mine who is vegan just purchased these Simply Vera Vera Wang wedges (on sale for $27.99), and she loves them. The sleek black slingback is edgy while the cutouts add a sweet touch.
4. Famous Footwear is another store that carries a wide assortment of vegan shoes, and chances are there's one in your area so you can try before you buy. These wedges by The Sweet Life remind me of DV by Dolce Vita's "Pila" wedges, an uber popular look that you can wear with just about everything all summer long.
5. Chinese Laundry has an entire section of their website devoted to vegan shoes, making it easier than ever to find what you're looking for. You'll find styles like the "Double Twist" that look luxe, not plastic-y. Look for Chinese Laundry shoes at stores like DSW, Marshall's and T.J. Maxx (which are also great places to buy cute vegan shoes).
6. JCPenney has a sizable shoe department with plenty of vegan options, from trend-conscious brands like Olsenboye and Aldo Group's new line Call It Spring. These Olsenboye wedges remind me of Stuart Weitzman's popular "Alex" espadrilles, but cost a fraction of the price.
3. Kohl's is another hotspot for vegan-friendly footwear. In fact, a friend of mine who is vegan just purchased these Simply Vera Vera Wang wedges (on sale for $27.99), and she loves them. The sleek black slingback is edgy while the cutouts add a sweet touch.
4. Famous Footwear is another store that carries a wide assortment of vegan shoes, and chances are there's one in your area so you can try before you buy. These wedges by The Sweet Life remind me of DV by Dolce Vita's "Pila" wedges, an uber popular look that you can wear with just about everything all summer long.
5. Chinese Laundry has an entire section of their website devoted to vegan shoes, making it easier than ever to find what you're looking for. You'll find styles like the "Double Twist" that look luxe, not plastic-y. Look for Chinese Laundry shoes at stores like DSW, Marshall's and T.J. Maxx (which are also great places to buy cute vegan shoes).
6. JCPenney has a sizable shoe department with plenty of vegan options, from trend-conscious brands like Olsenboye and Aldo Group's new line Call It Spring. These Olsenboye wedges remind me of Stuart Weitzman's popular "Alex" espadrilles, but cost a fraction of the price.